Di Matteo, who currently has no input on comings and goings at Stamford Bridge, said of Drogba: "You've seen him many, many years now over the course of his career here and I'm sure you've made your own assessment of what kind of character he is.

"He's been with the club a long time and he's part of the history of this club - like many players that we've had here - and he always will be.

"The final decision (over his future) is going to be the club's decision."